In pics: Protestors clash with riot police as Turkey boils after Istanbul Mayor's arrest

Thousands of protesters gathered across Turkey after Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu was arrested on corruption charges. Many accused the government of using the judiciary to sideline him ahead of the presidential elections, leading to the country’s largest demonstrations in a decade. (Image source: AP)

Demonstrators waving Turkish flags clashed with riot police, demanding Imamoglu’s release. Protest bans were imposed in major cities, but thousands took to the streets in Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir. The opposition party urged people to continue peaceful protests. (Image source: PTI)

Demonstrators held banners with messages such as "The revolution will be televised" and "I'm a good girl, officer," highlighting concerns over democratic backsliding. Many protesters accused President Erdogan of cracking down on political rivals through legal and administrative measures. (Image source: AP)

Riot police were deployed across major protest sites, blocking roads and metro stations to prevent further gatherings. The Turkish government defended its actions, claiming the measures were necessary to maintain public order and security. (Image source: AP)

Protesters continued to confront security forces despite warnings from officials. Many fear Imamoglu's removal could signal a further shift towards authoritarian rule. The opposition CHP party condemned the arrests as an attack on democracy. (Image source: AP)

Demonstrators threw fireworks towards riot police as the protests intensified. Security forces responded with force, using tear gas and water cannons to disperse crowds. Over 1,100 protesters have been arrested since the demonstrations began. (Image source: AP)

The protests, initially peaceful, turned chaotic as fireworks exploded over lines of riot police. The Turkish interior minister accused demonstrators of instigating violence and attempting to disrupt public order. The unrest spread to other cities. (Image source: AP)

As night fell, riot police clashed with protesters in Istanbul and Ankara. Authorities claim that some detained individuals have links to terrorist organizations, a charge dismissed by opposition leaders as an attempt to suppress dissent. (Image source: AP)

Security forces used batons and shields against demonstrators, leading to violent street battles. Reports indicate that dozens were injured, while rights groups have raised concerns over excessive force being used against protesters. (Image source: AP)

In response to growing unrest, police used pepper spray and tear gas to clear protest sites. The government defended the crackdown, while opposition figures called for continued mass demonstrations in support of Imamoglu. (Image source: AP)

Footage emerged of riot police kicking and assaulting demonstrators, fueling international criticism. European leaders condemned the arrests, while Erdogan’s government dismissed concerns, insisting the legal process was being followed. (Image source: AP)

Several demonstrators sustained injuries as riot police forcibly dispersed crowds. Human rights organisations have denounced the use of excessive force and arbitrary detentions, calling on the Turkish government to respect democratic freedoms. (Image source: AP)

With Imamoglu in jail, the opposition faces an uphill battle ahead of the 2028 elections. The unrest has shaken Turkey’s political landscape, raising fears of deeper instability as Erdogan’s government tightens its grip on power. (Image source: AP)